Europe’s Most Overrated Car Models

European cars usually come with a lofty reputation as fine machines. Names like Audi, Jaguar, and Mercedes-Benz make you think about elegant appearances, luxurious interiors, and superb performance on the road.

However, Euro cars aren’t perfect. While they certainly have great performance and features, some are not as good as their popular reputation makes them out to be.

What are the Most Overrated Euro Cars?

Here are some Euro cars that might not be as good as you think:

Audi A8

The Audi A8 offers an understated alternative to the usual full-size European luxury sedan. It combines amenities, comfort, and sporty performance. Recent models also feature many cutting-edge systems.

Unfortunately, the Audi A8 doesn’t deliver the exciting performance of its competitors, such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-class.

BMW 5 Series

Many BMW 5 Series models had the misfortune to appear during the Bangle era, which fell between the mid-1990s and mid-2000s. The period was named after BMW’s head of design Chris Bangle and was known for its controversial design language.

The Bangle era debuted famous models like the BMW E46 3-Series, BMW Z4, and BMW E60 5-Series. However, not all changes introduced during this time period proved positive.

If you ever wondered why many BMW models during the 1990s and 2000s had rear ends that prominently stuck out, it’s because they’re designed to have the so-called Bangle butt.

The Bangle era also introduced the practice of flame surfacing. It uses body contours to create concave and convex lines that supposedly evoke flickering flames. Some drivers like the concept, but others hate it.

Conversely, there are also BMW 5 Series models that played it safe by introducing updates in a lackadaisical manner. If you’ve seen the BMW E38, you might have heard it described as a bland redesign of the E32. Both are considered better than the E65, though.

BMW 7 Series

The BMW 7 Series is the company’s flagship luxury sedan. It combines a luxurious interior and high-tech features, making it a popular choice.

However, the BMW 7 doesn’t significantly outperform its competitors, such as the iconic Mercedes-Benz S-Class. If the 7 Series can’t win in terms of comfort and prestige, you might be better off with other vehicles.

Jaguar XJ

Jaguar is the British equivalent of the German luxury car brands. Currently owned by Indian company Tata Motors, Jaguar offers cars with striking appearances and luxurious interiors.

However, reliability issues plague Jaguar cars. They’re considered even bigger garage queens than other luxury vehicles, which is saying a lot.

Furthermore, Jaguar is less prestigious than its German competitors, which is why many will choose a BMW or a Mercedes-Benz over a Jag.

Land Rover Defender

Whenever British movie protagonists need to drive into the wilderness, they usually hop into the driver’s seat of a Land Rover Defender. James Bond did it; Lara Croft did it; even The Fast & The Furious movies have them.

While the Land Rover Defender is a classic 4×4, it isn’t a good one. The hard top makes accessing the rear end difficult, the space in the back is terrible, and it’s not pleasant to drive. The Defender is an old and outdated model that ended production for a reason.

Land Rover Range Rover

The Range Rover is the opulent successor of the Land Rover Defender. Everything the earlier 4×4 can do, the Range Rover can do better.

Unfortunately, the Range Rover can’t shake off suspicions of unreliability. It also costs far more than its competitors.

Porsche Panamera

On one hand, the Porsche Panamera inherits the performance and build quality that defined the company’s classics like the Porsche 911. On the other hand, the Panamera isn’t the 911.

For one thing, the Porsche Panamera is a 4-door sedan, not a sports car. Because it veers away from what made Porsche famous, some enthusiasts think the Panamera and other, similar models weaken the brand’s identity.

Why Are Euro Cars Considered Less Reliable?

Here are the common factors behind the overrated reputation of European cars:

Complicated Engineering and Complex Systems

European car manufacturers often emphasize luxury and performance in their vehicles. Their complex systems achieve higher performance levels, but usually sacrifice reliability.

Compared to American and Japanese brands, European cars usually require maintenance more frequently. They’re also down for repairs more often.

Furthermore, the intricate systems in Euro cars require strict adherence to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and services.

Overemphasis on Handling and Performance

European cars are often known for their agility and deft handling. They’re designed to tackle Europe’s various roads and driving conditions.

To achieve high performance, Euro cars might sacrifice reliability and toughness. A Porsche 911 or Lamborghini can go fast and turn sharply, but it also breaks down faster.

Different Ownership Mentality

Europeans and Americans take different approaches when it comes to owning a car and associated upkeep. They don’t see eye-to-eye on matters such as frequency and urgency of maintenance.

These differences in ownership mentality can affect how drivers see Euro cars. Europeans believe such vehicles are dependable because they’re used to the latter’s requirements and quirks. In contrast, Americans might consider imported Euro cars demanding and unreliable.

Keep in mind that cars will need maintenance and repair, usually sooner rather than later. Even the world’s most reliable car might break down rapidly if it didn’t get regular oil changes.

Different National Regulations and Standards

Car manufacturers usually design and build their vehicles to local standards. Euro cars pass all EU and domestic tests with flying colors, but they might stumble or stop when it comes to US regulations on matters like safety.

Most Euro cars aren’t bad. Many count as good models overall. However, don’t let their glittering reputation in the popular imagination blind you. They’re vulnerable to the same issues as other cars are. In some cases, they’re even worse. Recognizing which European cars are overrated can help you choose a truly good one.